- Evri couriers are cutting corners to deliver more parcels for better pay, leading to missed deliveries and customer frustration.
- New “small packets” rates have reduced earnings for some workers, potentially pushing them below minimum wage.
- Parcels are often misbanded as small packets, leaving couriers short-changed due to lower pay rates.
- Evri’s paid-per-parcel model is under scrutiny amid allegations of not paying the minimum wage.
The Problem with Evri’s Delivery Model: Cutting Corners for Better Pay
In an undercover investigation by BBC Panorama, it was revealed that delivery firm Evri is pressuring its couriers to cut corners to complete more deliveries faster and earn better pay. This has led to missed parcels and frustrated customers.
Underpaid Couriers Struggle for Survival
According to current and former workers, changes in Evri’s pay rates have made it difficult to make a living wage. Dave, an ex-Evri driver, shared his experience of earning less than the minimum wage after rate changes last January.
“You were always looking over your shoulder, wondering what might come next in terms of reducing your rates,” he told BBC Panorama.
New “Small Packets” Rates Under Fire
The introduction of “small packets,” which can be delivered for as little as 35p, has been criticized by couriers. They claim that larger items are often misbanded as small packets to save on costs. This practice not only reduces earnings but also leads to customer dissatisfaction.
“Parcels go missing,” one long-time Evri courier told BBC Panorama, describing how workers are expected to deliver more parcels faster and leave them in safe places or even throw them at the back door if necessary.
Labor Rights and Minimum Wage Concerns
The legal director of Evri stated that couriers earn significantly above the minimum wage. However, current and former employees dispute this claim, citing examples where they earned well below the national minimum wage due to misbanding and reduced pay rates.
“I think Evri are making a fortune off the couriers’ backs,” one courier said, highlighting the tension between company profits and employee wages.
Customer Impact: Missing Parcels and Delays
The issue extends beyond just couriers; customers are also affected by these practices. Becky in Hampshire reported missing parcels from her delivery, leading to frustration and inconvenience for many families who rely on timely deliveries during the holiday season.
“You feel like you’re playing Russian roulette”, she said about the uncertainty of whether a parcel will arrive as expected.
Industry Context: Evri’s Dominance and Customer Complaints
Evri is a market leader in delivery services, but recent customer surveys by Ofcom indicate that it has the highest level of customer dissatisfaction. Despite its claim of delivering over 900 million parcels this year, Evri faces significant challenges related to delayed deliveries and non-deliveries.
“The company provides a fast, reliable, and cost-effective delivery service,” an Evri spokesperson said in response to the allegations. However, the underlying issues of pay rates and parcel misbanding continue to impact both employees and customers alike.
Conclusion
A Call for Transparency and Fair Pay
The investigation by BBC Panorama highlights the complex challenges faced by delivery companies like Evri. While they strive to meet high volume demands, maintaining fair labor practices and customer satisfaction remains a critical issue. As the holiday season approaches, these concerns underscore the need for transparency and equitable solutions in the delivery industry.
